110 Best Thank You Messages for Teachers (Plus, Gift Ideas)

Whether it’s Teacher Appreciation Week, the end of the school year, or any average day, there’s never a bad time to thank teachers for all of their hard work. In this article, we’ve gathered all the best thank you messages for teachers so students, parents, and principals can show their appreciation for everything teachers do. Plus, learn how to write a great thank you note and get ideas for thank you gifts for teachers.

Best Ideas for Teacher Thank You Notes

“A great teacher is difficult to find, hard to leave, and impossible to forget! Thank you for everything you do!”
“With your hard work, dedication, and kindness, it’s no secret you’re my favorite teacher. Thank you for everything you do.”
“Thank you so much for motivating my child to aim high for their education! You are a blessing!”

Section 1 of 13:

Best Thank You Messages for a Teacher

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Show sincere appreciation for an incredible teacher. While people often thank teachers at the end of the school year or during Teacher Appreciation Week, there’s never a wrong time to express gratitude for all their hard work. Let them know how grateful you are to have them as a role model. Here are some examples:
- “A great teacher is difficult to find, hard to leave, and impossible to forget! Thank you for everything you do!”
- “Superheroes don’t wear capes—they teach! Thank you for being a great role model.”
- “Thank you for your untiring support and patience. You’re an incredible teacher and an even better person.”
- “Your dedication to teaching and endless patience have made a difference in my life. Thank you.”
- “Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”
- “Your kindness and compassion have touched my heart in ways I can’t express. Thank you for everything.”
- “You made me feel seen when I felt invisible. Thank you for always believing in me and showing me all I could become.”
- “If teaching were a sport, you’d definitely win MVP!”
- “You are the best teacher I could have ever asked for. Your advice and guidance helped me become a better student and a better person. Thank you so much!”
- “You always had high expectations from me because you believed in me and understood my potential even when I didn’t. Thank you for having faith in me.”

Section 2 of 13:

Thank You Messages from a Student

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Thank your teacher for everything they’ve taught you. Teaching can sometimes seem like a thankless task, so it’s important for students to let their teachers know how much they appreciate their dedication. If you’re a student, think of how your teacher has impacted you and thank them for everything they’ve done throughout the school year. Here are some examples:^{[1]
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- “I’ll always cherish the lessons you’ve taught me, both inside and outside the classroom.”
- “Your dedication to your students is truly admirable, and I am so to have had you as my teacher.”
- “Thank you for being more than just a teacher—you’re a mentor, a role model, and a friend.”
- “Thanks for not giving up on me, even when I was convinced math was a foreign language.”
- “You deserve an award for dealing with us crazy students! Thank you for everything that you do!”
- “I don’t know where I’d be without having you as my teacher this year. Your class made me realize that I have the courage and confidence to pursue my dreams. Thank you.”
- “Thank you so much for encouraging me to perform my best and giving me a passion for learning. You’re the best!”
- “With your hard work, dedication, and kindness, it’s no secret you’re my favorite teacher. Thank you for everything you do.”
- “I will always cherish the wonderful memories I made in your classroom. Thanks for being an awesome teacher!”
- “Thank you for helping me become the best version of myself. Keep doing amazing things!”

Section 3 of 13:

Thank You Messages from a Parent

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Thank a teacher for caring about your child. As a parent, you probably know how important it is for children to have good adult role models in their life, and teachers are often the first role models children have outside of their family. Thank your child’s teacher for caring about them both academically and personally. Here are some examples:^{[2]
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- “Thank you for being an excellent teacher. Your patience and dedication really helped my child succeed.”
- “Thank you for understanding how to encourage my child and always making the effort to do it. You’re simply the best!”
- “Thank you so much for motivating my child to aim high for their education! You are a blessing!”
- “Your commitment to fostering a love of learning in your students is commendable. We are lucky to have you as a teacher.”
- “Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and we are so grateful to have you as our child’s teacher.”
- “Your unwavering commitment to teaching has had a profound impact on my child's academic journey. Thank you for always going above and beyond.”
- “Your passion for teaching shines through in every interaction with my child. Thank you for creating a supportive and enriching learning environment that has fostered their love for learning.”
- “Thank you for recognizing and nurturing my child's unique talents and abilities. Your belief in their potential has given them the confidence to reach for the stars.”
- “My child is going to grow up stronger and smarter because of you. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world.”
- “Every morning, I see how happy my child is to come into your room. It’s clear how much they love you and the environment you create.”

Section 4 of 13:

Thank You Messages from a Principal

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Thank a teacher for a job well done. As a principal, it’s important to acknowledge everything your teachers do for their students. If you notice a teacher going above and beyond, make sure to let them know how much you appreciate them. Here are some examples:^{[3]
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- “Your ability to connect with your students on a personal level has created a supportive and nurturing learning environment. Thank you for understanding and valuing each student's unique journey.”
- “Thank you for being such a valuable member of our school community. Your hard work is noticed and appreciated.”
- “Thank you for being such a tremendous teacher at our school. We appreciate everything you do.”
- “You always go the extra mile for your students. Thank you for putting so much passion and energy into your teaching.”
- “We're so grateful that you’re a part of our school. The students love you, and you always motivate them to do their very best.
- “Thank you for not only being a great teacher but also being so supportive of your colleagues. We really value your wonderful contribution to our school community.”
- “You inspire your students to be better people and to always strive to do their very best. Thank you for being a wonderful teacher.”
- “Thank you for demonstrating our school values and being such a wonderful role model for our community. We're so grateful to have you as a teacher at our school.”
- “Your students have done so well this year thanks to your guidance. Thank you for all the extra effort you put into making sure all their needs are met.”
- “We all appreciate the huge effort you put in this year to make your class fun. We’re lucky to have a teacher like you on our team.”

Section 5 of 13:

Short and Sweet Thank You Notes

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Express your gratitude with a short note. If you’re thanking a teacher for something small or if you’re also giving them a gift, it’s usually acceptable to keep your note short. Acknowledge what they did and express your appreciation. Here are some examples:
- “Appreciating all that you do—thank you!”
- “Thanks for shaping young minds with grace and humor.”
- “You make learning a joy—thank you!”
- “For all the sacrifices you make, thank you.”
- “Thank you for caring so much about your students! We appreciate you!”
- “Your guidance and support have shaped my future, and I'm forever grateful.”
- “You've been more than a teacher; you've been an inspiration.”
- “Thank you for being an exceptional teacher who made a difference in my life.”
- “My success is a reflection of your hard work and guidance—thank you for pushing me.”
- “Thank you for making learning an exciting and transformative journey.”

Section 6 of 13:

Thank You Messages for Graduation

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Let your former teachers know how much they’ve impacted you. Graduation is a perfect time to reflect on everything you’ve learned throughout your education. Think about your favorite teachers and why they mean so much to you. Thank them for helping you graduate and for encouraging you to chase your dreams. Here are some examples:^{[4]
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- “You’ve taught me so much more than just academics. Thank you for being a mentor and a role model.”
- “I’ll always remember the lessons you’ve taught me and our shared memories in your classroom. Thank you for everything.”
- “I cannot thank you enough for the knowledge, skills, and values you've imparted to me. You've not only been a teacher but also a mentor and role model. I am forever grateful for your guidance.”
- “Your unwavering belief in my abilities has fueled my ambition and given me the courage to pursue my dreams. Thank you for being my biggest cheerleader and supporter.”
- “Your passion for education is contagious, and it has ignited a fire within me to make a difference in the world. Thank you for inspiring me to pursue my passions and strive for excellence.”
- “To my amazing teacher, thank you for being my guiding light throughout my educational journey. Your knowledge, support, and encouragement have helped shape me into the person I am today.”
- “As I prepare to graduate, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all my teachers. Your passion for teaching and belief in my potential has empowered me to reach for the stars.”
- “To the teachers who believed in me when I doubted myself, thank you for pushing me beyond my limits and helping me discover my true capabilities. I am forever grateful!”
- “As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my life, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you. Your dedication and commitment to helping your students succeed have made a lasting impact on me.”
- “Thank you for seeing my potential even when I doubted myself. Your unwavering support and belief in me have given me the confidence to pursue my dreams and achieve things I never thought possible.”

Section 7 of 13:

End of the Year Thank You Messages

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Thank a teacher for everything they’ve done throughout the year. The end of the school year is often a time for celebration—for students and teachers alike. Whether you’re a student or the parent of a student, thank the teacher for all of their support and guidance that helped ensure the year was a success. Here are some examples:^{[5]
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- “Thank you for going above and beyond to ensure my success. Your commitment to my learning journey has made a lasting impact, and I am forever grateful for your unwavering support.”
- “I'll never forget the countless hours you dedicated to helping me succeed. Your selflessness and dedication have left a permanent mark on my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
- “This is the first year I've actually enjoyed school, and that's all because of you. I will never forget you.”
- “You've made such a huge difference in my life. I am so glad to have had you as a teacher this year.”
- “I've loved being in your class this year. I never knew [subject] could be so interesting. Thank you!”
- “I know we were not the easiest class, but you still cared for each and every one of us. Thank you for putting up with us.”
- “What a crazy year it's been. Thanks for looking after us all and helping us get through it!”
- “You are the best teacher I have ever had. Thank you for making learning fun.”
- “Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher. I'm so grateful to have been in your class this year. I'll miss you and the rest of the class!”
- “I feel so lucky to have had a teacher who really cares about their students like you do. Thanks for everything.”

Section 8 of 13:

Back to School Appreciation Notes

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Show excitement for the new school year. While not necessarily a “thank you,” it’s also important to let teachers know how much you’re looking forward to getting to know them throughout the new school year. Let them know you’re excited to learn, and tell them if you’ve heard good things about them or their class. Here are some examples:^{[6]
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- “Here’s to a great year! I’m so excited to have you as my teacher!”
- “I’m really looking forward to learning with you this year!”
- “Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge that can last a lifetime. I can’t wait to see what seeds we plant this year!”
- “I’ve heard great things about you! I’m looking forward to your class!”
- “This semester is going to be great! I can’t wait to get started.”
- “Cheers to a new school year! I know my child is going to enjoy your class.”
- “I can’t wait to see what new and exciting things you’ll teach us this year!”
- “I’m looking forward to a great school year under your guidance!”
- “My child is so excited to have you as a teacher. This year is going to be great!”
- “I’m so excited to take your class this semester! I’ve heard wonderful things.”

Section 9 of 13:

Quotes About Teachers

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Share a quote about teaching in addition to your thank you. If you’re having trouble coming up with the right words for your thank you message, consider including a famous quote, as well. Many celebrities and historical figures have spoken positively about teachers and the act of teaching, so there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some examples:^{[7]
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- “Being a new teacher is like trying to fly an airplane while building it.” – Rick Smith.
- “Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.” – Sidney Hook
- “A good teacher is like a candle—it consumes itself to light the way for others.” – Mustafa Kemal Ataturk
- “Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero to me.” – Fred Rogers
- “Good teaching is more a giving of right questions than a giving of right answers.” – Josef Albers
- “The great teacher is not the man who supplies the most facts, but the one in whose presence we become different people.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
- “Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.” – Confucius
- “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
- “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” – Brad Henry
- “The object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves throughout their lives.” – Robert M. Hutchins

Section 10 of 13:

Thank You Messages for Preschool Teachers

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Thank your little one’s teacher for their patience and support. If you’re a parent, you probably know that, while rewarding, caring for small children is no easy task. Let your child’s preschool teacher know how much you appreciate all of their patience and hard work. Encourage your child to draw them a handmade thank you card, as well! Here are some example messages:^{[8]
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- “There aren’t enough gold stars for all the good you do.”
- “You teach the ABCs with TLC. Thank you for all that you do!”
- “Thanks for providing a safe place for my child to grow.”
- “The way you’re shaping young minds gives me so much hope for the future.”
- “Trusting your kid to someone else can be hard, but not with you. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication.”
- “You’re a super teacher—somehow, you always know how to save the day.”
- “Thank you for creating such a fun and engaging environment in your classroom. Your patience, kindness, and thoughtfulness make all the children feel so loved.”
- “Thank you for everything you do. You make my child feel loved and special, and she loves coming to school because of you.”
- “I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate your teaching. Thank you for making our little ones feel so special and loved at school.”
- “Every day, I look at my kid and see the difference you’re making. Thank you.”

Section 11 of 13:

Thank You Messages for College Professors

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Show appreciation for a beloved college professor. It sometimes seems like people forget that college professors are teachers, too. Make sure your professor knows how much you enjoyed their class by thanking them for everything they’ve taught you, especially if it influenced your major or career decisions. Here are some examples:^{[9]
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- “I already know your class will be one of my favorite college memories. Thank you for everything!”
- “Thanks to you, I’ve learned so much this semester. I’m so grateful to have had you as my professor.”
- “You opened my eyes to a whole new career path. I’m so excited for the future because of you and your class.”
- “College is meant to be challenging. Thankfully, you made it easier.”
- “It’s easy to get caught up in essays and tests, but your life lessons taught me the most. Thanks for being an incredible professor.”
- “This class may have been required, but of all the professors I could have had, I’m beyond grateful to have been in your class.”
- “You saw me as a person, not as a number. Thanks for that.”
- “I’m so glad I decided to take your class this semester. Thank you for everything you’ve taught me.”
- “Thank you for being such an important part of my college education. I’ll always cherish the memories I made in your class.”
- “I could have easily slipped through the cracks, but you made it your business not to let that happen. Thanks for caring about my success.”

Section 12 of 13:

How to Write a Thank You Note for a Teacher

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Encourage young students to make a handmade card. Many teachers say that the best gift they can receive is a homemade card from their students. If you’re the parent of a young child, encourage them to draw and write the note themselves, as this is more personal than buying a premade thank you card from the store.^{[10]
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- If your child is too young to write, have them draw a picture and tell you what they want the card to say. Then, write the note for them.
- If you’re an older student, it probably isn’t necessary to make your own card, but consider handwriting your message to make it more personal.
Make sure your teacher knows their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank them for the time and effort they put into your (or your child’s) education. Try to mention specific instances of their hard work to show that you’re paying attention.^{[11]
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Reflect on your time in the teacher’s class and what they’ve done to make you grow as a student and as a person. For example, if you’ve always struggled with math and they helped you finally understand it, tell them. If they supported you through a difficult time, let them know how much it meant to you. This can be a humbling reminder for the teacher about why they do what they do.^{[12]
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Section 13 of 13:

Teacher Gift Ideas

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Give your teacher a gift to show your appreciation week. Many students (or parents of students) choose to give teachers a gift during Teacher Appreciation Week or at the end of the school year as a way to thank them for all their hard work and dedication. If possible, try to find out what the teacher wants or needs to make the gift more personal. Otherwise, here are some great gift ideas to choose from:^{[13]
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- A handmade card from the student
- Gift cards
- Notepads or notebooks
- Pens and pencils
- Board games to use in the classroom
- Snacks or candy